Stanley Lake

At the foot of the Sawtooth Mountains in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, in Custer County, Idaho, is Stanley Lake, an alpine lake in the western United States. The lake is conveniently accessible through a three-mile spur road from State Highway 21 and is located roughly seven miles west of Stanley. The lake's elevation above sea level at its surface is 6,513 feet.

In addition to being close to the significantly smaller Elk Peak, Stanley Lake is located northeast of the base of the 9,860-foot McGown Peak. The lake feeds into the main Salmon River through Stanley Lake Creek and Valley Creek and is located two miles (three kilometers) downstream of Lady Face Falls on Stanley Lake Creek.

Vehicles can access this calm environment by parking close to the Stanley Lake Campground, with the imposing McGowan Peak dominating the background. The campground offers a public boat ramp, and many hiking trails take you to other breathtaking vistas of the lake. Stanley Lake is one of the best lakes to visit in Idaho.

Location: Custer County, Idaho